Lynyrd Skynyrd Guitarist Dead at 68

Former Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Ed King has died in Nashville, Tennessee, according to a family friend.

Scott Coopwood said King died on Wednesday due to cancer. He was 68.

King joined the band in 1972 and was part of its first three albums with its distinct three-guitar sound.

He is credited on several of Lynyrd Skynyrd's songs, including Saturday Night Special and Workin' for MCA, and his voice can be heard providing the opening count on Sweet Home Alabama.

I’ve just found out about Ed’s passing and I’m shocked and saddened. Ed was our brother, and a great Songwriter and Guitar player. I know he will be reunited with the rest of the boys in Rock & Roll Heaven. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sharon and his family. -Gary Rossington